MAKING A DIFFERENCE DURING THE 2010 OLYMPIC GAMES


WHAT ARE LEGAL OBSERVERS?

Legal observers are volunteers who represent the watching eyes of the BCCLA during the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver. They will be focused on police, military and private security conduct to ensure accountability. More concretely, they will be observing major protests and other potential hot spots like Olympic venues and the Downtown Eastside. Legal observers will report observations back to BCCLA's team of volunteer lawyers who are prepared to go to court to protect people's rights where complaints cannot be resolved informally.

WHY BECOME A LEGAL OBSERVER?

The Olympics has an unfortunate history of being associated with government activities that repress dissenting voices and "undesirable" populations. In China, dissidents and potential protesters were detained and protest pens sat empty. In Atlanta and Sydney, homeless people were harassed and displaced by security teams. Our Observer's first-hand evidence will form a solid foundation for undertaking legal actions against those who jeopardize free speach, civil liberties and human rights during the Games.

HOW TO BECOME A LEGAL OBSERVER?

Sign up, attend a workshop and get trained by professionals.

To sign up please contact Shannon at shannon@bccla.org


The following workshop is now full:
Sunday, January 10, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Strathcona Community Centre
Vancouver, B.C.

Another workshop is to be announced.